Electra is on the road—or runway, rather—to production.
The Virginia startup just announced that its hybrid-electric ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft has scored a very important tick of approval from the FAA. The U.S. regulator has closed the G-1 Issue Paper, putting the EL9 firmly on track for type certification and commercialization.
“The swift G1 achievement reflects the hard work and productive collaboration between Electra and the FAA, who are working together to make the future of aviation real,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra.
The EL9 can not only execute vertical takeoffs and landings like an eVTOL, but also land like a traditional plane in spaces shorter than a soccer field (150 feet or less). That means it can move beyond conventional runways and airports, accessing tight spots like parking lots or rooftops.
The eSTOL also has a greater range and payload than the average eVTOL, since using a runway—even a very short one—requires less battery power than vertical flight. The EL9 has range up to 1,100 nautical miles and a payload capacity of 3,000 pounds, according to Electra. It can carry up to eight passengers (plus a pilot) on routes up to 330 nautical miles, making it a true air taxi.
